Former medical director of the Gadsden Regional Hospital Emergency Department, Chris Endfinger has close to two decades of medical experience. He currently leverages his knowledge to provide care to patients as an emergency room attending physician with Team Health Southeast. In his free time, Chris Endfinger enjoys spending time outdoors and fishing.

1. HEALTH BENEFITS OF FISHING
Chris Endfinger

2. INTRODUCTION
 Former medical director of the Gadsden Regional Hospital Emergency
Department, Chris Endfinger has close to two decades of medical
experience. He currently leverages his knowledge to provide care to
patients as an emergency room attending physician with Team Health
Southeast. In his free time, Chris Endfinger enjoys spending time
outdoors and fishing.
Fishing is a popular pastime for more than 40 million Americans, but it is
more than just an enjoyable activity. There are actually a number of
health benefits that have been linked to fishing. Below are just a few of
these benefits:
- Good exercise:
With the exception of fishing from a boat, most types of fishing are a
great form of exercise. Wading through water and casting a fishing pole
for hours on end are good, low-impact ways to improve heart health and
dexterity.

3. FISHING
 However, fishing alone is not enough of a physical workout to cause
much weight loss.
- Reduces stress:
The relaxing setting of most fishing spots and the repetitive motion of
casting a line allow the mind to become calm. Anglers have the
opportunity to separate themselves from the stressors of daily life and
focus just on the pleasures of fishing. Giving the brain a chance to relax
and recharge is vital to maintaining one's good mental health.
- Good nutrition:
It is well-known that eating fish has a wide range of benefits to our
overall health. The omega-3 fatty acids that are found in many fish
reduce the risk of heart failure and stroke. They also decrease blood
pressure. Additionally, eating fish protects the skin from UV-rays and
decreases the risk of arthritis, while just being outside in the sun
provides the body with vitamin D.